Yea, you are right about touring - there is no substitution
for a touring kayak.

But where KD lives there is no touring, unless this is a
real estate beach property tour.
If you go some place else, you can rent a tourer rather than haul it
all the way(I prefer double for touring)

Going to Santa Catalina Isl. would require a sea-worthy kayak but this
is not a every day adventure.

So where KD lives is a prime location for a ski - harbor nearby
for flat water paddling and ocean for calm days, warm weatrher all
year.

Here is comparison:


Kayak (sit in) Kayak (sit on top) Surf Ski

Exercise Some None (too wide for Excellent
forward stroke)

Touring Good None (too unwieldy Bad choice
and wet) (no hatches)


Launch Jetty, wet feet Any Wade in
or scarped bottom

Wet suit Often needed Same Same


Weight 42lb 55lb 25lb


Pump, float, Yes No No
skirt

Bathroom **** bottle Do not stray too far No problemo
from bathroom

Cost $3000+ $800 $2000

Speed OK Slow up to 8MPH

Paddle Touring Any flat object Wing paddle

Diving No Works well Snorkeling
only

Birdwatching Yes Good Only birds
that poop on you

The "Wow' index Only bright Only when you All the time
colors lift it

Safety Wet exit or eskimo Safe Safe